Canon releases entry-level 3.2 MP PowerShot A310

Canon who made an impressive introduction some weeks ago of their new DSLR announces a whole bunch of new digital cameras today. Among them is the 3.2 Megapixel PowerShot A310. With a new Print/Share button and extended print functionality, the camera replaces the PowerShot A300. Although targeted at consumers looking for an easy-to-use camera, many features found in Canon's high-end cameras have been included to ensure that image quality and flexibility is maintained. These include Canon's highly responsive and award winning dedicated DIGIC processor for superb colour rendering and high image quality, a 5.1x digital zoom, movie clips and 5-point AiAF auto-focus with 5cm macro close-up.

The new Print/Share button for single step printing and file sharing is a new feature in the new series of Canon cameras.

Simplified Printing and Uploading
When the camera is connected via USB cable to any PictBridge or Direct Print compatible photo printer or Windows PC, a blue light on the Print/Share button lights up to indicate successful connection. Pushing the button when lit instigates a print of the current displayed image (based on the connected printer's default settings) or an automatic transfer of images to the PC (Requires application software provided to be loaded on the PC and camera pre-settings to be selected). The camera transfers all images, all images not yet transferred, or all images marked for transfer, depending on the user setting selected in the Camera's set up options.

Latest features
The movie recording function has been extended to allow recording of VGA movie clips up to 30 seconds. Up to 3 minute movie clips can be recorded in QVGA and QQVGA modes. All movie clips can be cut and edited in-camera. The PowerShot A310 also brings a new look to the PowerShot range, with a gold 'Chardonnay' finish sliding lens cover, plus an embossed and ground name logo.

Purpose built processor
Built into the PowerShot A310 is Canon's DIGIC processor, the dedicated image processor now found in all Canon digital cameras up to the EOS 10D Digital SLR. By integrating all image processing algorithms onto a single chip, the purpose-built DIGIC processor has underpinned much of Canon's success in the digital camera market by delivering fast write times, minimal shutter lag, optimal image definition and consistently precise and natural colour reproduction.

Expanded direct printing functions
The PowerShot A310 has been given extended PC-less direct printing functionality. When connected to a Canon Compact Photo printer, a Movie Print mode divides the selected clip into equal parts and prints thumbnails of a maximum 63 equally spaced frames onto a single sheet of Postcard Size Paper (100 x 148 mm); ideal for freezing action sequences such as a golf swing. An ID Photo Print function prints a number of durable passport photograph size images (of selected height and width) to a single sheet.